Citizens Envision ‘Tomorrow’s Sharjah’ at IGCF 2019

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Several interactive and youth-focused initiatives have been showcased at the International Government Communication Forum 2019, to highlight the 8th edition’s theme, ‘Behavioural Change Towards Human Development’. As part of the two-day Forum at Expo Centre Sharjah, activities have revolved around ideating Sharjah’s future and implementing constructive behavioural changes in today’s youth.

Sharjah Events website, an initiative by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, showcased an interactive map entitled “Tomorrow’s Sharjah…How Do You See It?” The map acted as a link between the public and Sharjah’ entities and institutions. Visitors wrote down numerous proposals about the city, which then appeared in specific locations on a large map. Sharjah Events also held a competition for members of the community, where they expressed innovative ideas for the city’s future in an electronic game format. 

 

“Through the interactive map displayed today, we hope to build a link between the citizens and government entities and encourage the public’s imagination. When people want to see something in Sharjah, but don’t know where to start, they can leave their suggestions with us. This vital connection between people and the government will surely create a better future for Sharjah. A small idea of today can become an important part of the city in the coming years,” said Amira Al Zarouni, Head of Sharjah Events Website.

 

Sharjah 2071, an electronic game launched in conjunction with Sharjah Department of eGovernment and Sharjah Children, provided an edutainment platform that encouraged positive behavioural changes within children. Utilising gamification technology, virtual characters created by children traversed through multiple challenges, impacted either positively or negatively by behavioural decisions taken during the game.

 

The "Sheikh Sultan Award for Celebrating the Spirit of Youth”, the first of its kind in the region, was launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Aimed at empowering the UAE youth by refining their talents, daily skills and will power, the award was open for citizens between 13 and 18 years of age. Participants engaged in multifaceted levels to attain the award, including volunteering, adventure activities, skill acquisition and talent building.  

 

HE Noura Al Noman, Chairperson of the Executive Office of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi and Board of Trustees’ Member of Rubu’ Qarn Foundation, commented, “The award is designed to celebrate the distinguished capabilities of youth and to prepare generations who will face challenges head-on. His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi share a clear vision of preparing the youth to build a prosperous tomorrow. From this vision stems the award’s motto: ‘Your journey of achievements is the real award’.”

 

‘Stations to Discover Yourself’, an insightful educational activation, shone light on the importance of successful training. Trainees went through three unique stages that featured
45–60 minute motivational workshops on human development. Every workshop underlined different concepts allowing trainees to learn something new in each session.

 

Organised by the International Government Communication Centre (IGCC), IGCF 2019 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The two-day event at Expo Centre Sharjah runs under the theme ‘Behavioural Change Towards Human Development’, and has brought together prominent figures, top officials, thought leaders and government communication experts from around the world to discuss and explore international best practices.